Stone massage is based on the principle of thermotherapy, which is the application of either hot or cold to the body for the purpose of changing the physiological responses that are going on in the body.  In other words, the use of hot and cold stone massage is to promote healing, balance and well-being.  With the use of the hot stones, circulation is rapidly altered.  When circulation increases, so does the delivery of nutrition to every cell in the body.  Increased blood flow also motivates the body to detoxify, therefore promoting healing.  The redness on the skin is an indication that oxygen is being promoted to the muscles and tissues which again promotes healing.

Sign or treatment of Heat:

• For the relief of localized pain
• To increase blood flow in order to relieve congestion internally
• To promote skin and tissue warming to produce relaxation
• Sedative; the promotion of a natural calmness by using heat to relieve insomnia, stress and tension

Benefits of Hot Stone Application:

• Relives arthritic and stiff joints
• Promotes a general body warming
• Helps to lower blood pressure
• Increases respiration
• Slows digestion and decreases gastric acidity
• Relives pain due to muscle spasms
• Softens and relaxes the muscles, increases blood flow which brings oxygen to the muscles
• Sedative and relaxing
• Relieves muscle stiffness and pain

Contraindications:

Do not use hot stone massage therapy for:  Acute asthma, pregnancy, acute infections, acute cystitis, or if you dislike or have an aversion to heat.